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New Nissan Kicks 2025
Forget about horsepower and zero-to-sixty times for a moment. The 2025 Nissan Kicks isn't about raw muscle; it's about fresh kicks (pun intended) and making a statement. Nissan has completely redesigned their subcompact crossover SUV, taking inspiration from the world of sneakers and injecting it with a bold, youthful energy. But is this all show and no go, or does the Kicks deliver on both style and substance? We spent a week behind the wheel to find out.
A Design Inspired by Hype Culture
The first thing that strikes you about the 2025 Kicks is its undeniably head-turning design. Gone are the soft curves of the previous generation. This Kicks is all sharp angles, creases, and a stance that screams "confident." The two-tone paint job on our test model, with a vibrant blue roof contrasting the sleek gray body, looked like it belonged on a limited-edition sneaker collaboration.
Nissan claims the design draws inspiration from "sneaker culture," and it's easy to see the influence. The Kicks has a sporty, almost aggressive look, with the boomerang-shaped headlights and the prominent grille resembling high-performance kicks. The taillights even have a slight upward tilt, mimicking the angled lines of a running shoe.
Stepping Inside the Kicks' Cabin
The "sneaker" theme continues inside the cabin, with pops of color on the dashboard and air vents that complement the exterior paint job. The overall feel is modern and surprisingly spacious, especially for a subcompact SUV. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on longer drives. Material quality is a step up from the previous Kicks, with a mix of soft-touch plastics and tasteful fabric accents.
The highlight of the interior, however, is the new infotainment system. Nissan has ditched the button overload of the past and opted for a clean layout dominated by a large touchscreen display. The system is responsive and easy to use, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration coming standard. A digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel adds a modern touch and provides all the essential driving information.
Tech-Savvy and Feature-Packed
Nissan hasn't forgotten about safety either. The 2025 Kicks comes loaded with a suite of driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features performed flawlessly during our test drive, offering peace of mind in busy city streets.
Another area where the new Kicks shines is technology. Several USB-C ports are scattered throughout the cabin, allowing passengers to keep their devices charged. A wireless charging pad eliminates the need for pesky cables, and a premium Bose sound system with speakers integrated into the front headrests delivers an immersive audio experience.
Powertrain: Not a Speed Demon, But Efficient
Under the hood, the 2025 Kicks boasts a new 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine, replacing the 1.6-liter unit of the previous generation. While not a powerhouse, this engine delivers a decent 139 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, enough for navigating city streets and highway cruising. More importantly, the engine is fuel-efficient, with Nissan estimating combined fuel economy figures in the mid-30s mpg range.
The Kicks comes standard with front-wheel drive, but for the first time, all-wheel drive is available as an option. This is a welcome addition for those who need a little extra capability for tackling light off-road trails or snowy conditions.
Taking the Kicks on the Road
The 2025 Kicks prioritizes comfort and maneuverability over sporty handling. The ride is smooth and composed, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. The steering is light and responsive, making the Kicks a breeze to navigate through tight city streets. Don't expect a thrilling driving experience, but for everyday commuting and errands, the Kicks delivers a pleasant and stress-free ride.
Who is the New Kicks For?
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is a perfect car for young urban professionals, students, or small families who prioritize style and technology over raw power. It's ideal for those who want a car that reflects their individuality and stands out from the crowd. With its spacious interior, user-friendly technology, and available all-wheel drive, the Kicks is also surprisingly versatile, capable of handling weekend adventures beyond the city limits.
The Verdict: A Fresh Take on the Subcompact SUV
The all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks is a bold departure from the previous generation. It's a car designed to make a statement, with its head-turning design, tech-laden interior, and emphasis on comfort and practicality.